Long-serving crime reporter Phil Mills has left The Argus in Brighton after being made redundant.

He had been on 'gardening leave' for the past month while his position at the paper was looked at in what is thought to be a cost-cutting measure.

Following the move, upset colleagues had sent a letter of protest to editor Michael Beard.

Phil had worked at The Argus for 26 years, during which time he won several industry awards and broke many major crime stories for the paper.

Phil told HoldtheFrontPage: "I am saddened by my departure and the way I have been treated after 26 years loyal service but I have been heartened by the wonderful support I have received from former colleagues, MPs, former MPs, business leaders, councillors, police officers, members of the community and fellow journalists, some of whom I have never met.

"I wish my home city paper well for the future."